About

The 82nd Texas Legislature created the Texas Financial Education Endowment (TFEE) to support statewide financial capability and consumer credit building activities. The Finance Commission launched a biennial (every other year) grant program in 2014 awarding endowment funds to organizations that promote consumer behaviors leading to long-term, tangible improvements in financial health.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Non-profit organizations, governmental organizations, schools, and for-profit entities are eligible to apply. Funding is not open to financial service providers and entities regulated by the Finance Commission.

Which Types of Programs Receive Funding?

More information on the types of programs receiving funding can be found on the Grand Application page.

  • School and Youth-based Financial Education: K-12th grade financial education programs that implement statewide TEKS requirements, including train the trainer programs
  • Adult Financial Education and Capability: Programs designed to help adults increase credit scores and personal savings; encourage liquid asset building; parent for financial capability;reduce debt of low-income, payday and auto title customers; and other related programs
  • Financial Coaching: Programs emphasizing change in financial behaviors over time, based on an ongoing relationship between the coach and the client

How Much Is Awarded & How May Funds Be Used?

Awards may be for amounts up to $90,000 and are paid as semi-annual program reimbursements over a 2-year cycle. (Click here to see a list of previous recipients and amounts.) Funds may be used only for expenditures identified in the application, authorized by the “Uniform Grant Management Standards” set by Texas’ Comptroller of Public Accounts, and allowable under Section VII of the Grant Administration & Advisory Policy Manual.

When Are Applications Accepted, How Are They Rated, & What Should Be Included?

Applications are accepted in odd-numbered years; the application period typically opens in early summer and runs through September. Applications are independently scored by three different members of the Grant Advisory Committee, using a rubric which considers such factors as: structure and capacity of applying organization; target audience and demographics served; program innovation, need, and sustainability. Be prepared to include detailed organizational information, program specifics, outcome metrics, budgets, etc. (Contact the TFEE Coordinator for a copy of the previous year’s application.)

Finance Commission of Texas

The mission of the Finance Commission of Texas is to ensure that the banks, savings institutions, consumer credit grantors, and other regulated entities chartered or licensed under state law operate as sound and responsible institutions that enhance the financial well-being of the citizens of Texas.

For additional information, e-mail TFEECoordinator@occc.texas.gov